Done and Sent’s Post

It's extremely encouraging to see a publication like the The Wall Street Journal report on the importance of the trades. We've been preaching this gospel for years — take care of the technicians, and you'll ensure our communities are served well into the future. For PE investors considering getting into the HVAC industry, we just put out a great Ebook on maximizing field service investment impact: https://lnkd.in/gNVNMwan

Big money investors are buying up local plumbing and HVAC businesses, turning everyday repair folks into millionaires. Since 2022, they've bought almost 800 companies, offering huge payouts to small business owners. This trend is making trades work look cooler and showing that you can get rich fixing pipes and air conditioners, not just by inventing apps. It's a new twist on the American dream - one where success comes with a tool belt instead of a fancy degree. #TradesMillionaires #PrivateEquity #HVAC #Plumbing #SmallBusiness #AmericanDream #Entrepreneurship #BlueCollarSuccess

Our report in collaboration with Solitary Watch found that over 122k people across the U.S. are currently in #solitaryconfinement each day. This example is shocking, but proves why we need to join together to end solitary confinement - help us end it! Learn more about our mission and the effects of solitary confinement here: https://zurl.co/ohSD

👋 Hello December 🎅 Need some extra support over the festive period? Don't worry our latest Monday News gives you a few tips to get through the busy Christmas Period 😨 Read more here: https://buff.ly/49jwldh #apprentices #otjtraining #trainingprovider

BANKS AND OFFICES ARE CLOSED ON MONDAY FOR VETERANS DAY "Whereas the 11th of November 1918, marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary, and far reaching war in human annals and the resumption by the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed, and Whereas it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations; and Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples." -Concurrent Resolution of the U.S. Congress, June 4, 1926

For older people who are feeling lonely or isolated, every day can be hard, but we know Christmas can be a particularly difficult time. While many of us are looking forward to celebrating with family and friends, many older people will be spending the festive season completely alone. Age UK's latest research has revealed that 1.4 million older people will be eating Christmas dinner alone this year. Please consider reaching out to older people in your lives and communities who may be feeling more isolated at this time of year - small gestures like asking someone round for a cup of tea, sending a card, or making a phone call can make a huge difference. Please also spread the word about Age UK's services - we're here every day, including Christmas day, for older people: ☎️ Age UK's Silver Line Helpline is open 24 hours a day for a friendly chat: 0800 4 70 80 90 ☎️ Age UK's Advice Line provides information and advice on a wide range of topics from care to benefits: 0800 169 69 65 (Open every day 8am-7pm) We’ve also launched our 'Together We're Not Alone' Christmas campaign to ensure no one has to face loneliness this festive season: https://lnkd.in/e8aCAe7p. Together, we can all help to change the lives of older people who are feeling lonely.

Remembering 9/11: A Global Tribute to Lives Lost When I witnessed the tragic events of 9/11 on television in Belgium, it felt surreal, like a scene from a National Geographic documentary in black and white. The reality of the attacks on the Twin Towers in the United States hit me hard, leaving me speechless and deeply saddened. The orchestrated hijackings and subsequent crashes that led to the loss of so many lives were a chilling reminder of the capacity for human cruelty. It was a stark wake-up call to the dangers of extremism and the urgent need to address conflicts and risks that can escalate into devastating acts of violence. On September 11, 2001, the world stood still as the United States experienced one of the most tragic events in its history. The attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., claimed the lives of 2,977 innocent people, including 10 Australians. Today, we pause to honor and remember those who lost their lives in the aftermath of 9/11. The U.S. Embassy in Australia stands as a symbol of unity and strength, serving as a guardian for two nations - the United States and Australia. It's a reminder of the strong bond between these two countries, especially in times of adversity. As we observe a moment of silence today, let's reflect on the impact of 9/11 on the world and pay tribute to the lives lost. The memory of that fateful day continues to resonate globally, reminding us of the importance of unity, compassion, and resilience in the face of tragedy. Let's come together as a global community to honor the memories of those who perished on 9/11 and to reaffirm our commitment to peace, tolerance, and understanding. May we never forget the lives lost on that day and may we strive to build a better, more peaceful world in their memory. In general, well, a single impulsive decision and action can have grave consequences, potentially endangering the lives of thousands of innocent people. Conversely, a well-considered and thoughtful step has the power to safeguard the world and its inhabitants, ensuring a safer and more peaceful future for God bless American 🇺🇸 | The Unforgettable Tragey & Remembering the Greatest Loss in American History #September11 #Tribute #USA #Australia #Embassy

If this is correct Claire Lilly then this is either more accurate reporting, a genuine increase in veteran suicides in the reporting period or a combination of both. Regardless it is a concerning increase in numbers.

Gone But Not Forgotten! James Earl Carter Jr., a small-town peanut farmer, U.S. Navy veteran, Georgia governor (1971-1975) and 39th U.S. President (1977-1981) died today (Sunday) at his home in Plains, Georgia. He was 100, and the oldest living president in American history. Carter turned 100 on October 1. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are an estimated 101, 000 centenarians in the United States, comprising 0.03% of the overall U.S. population. The number of Americans ages 100 and older is projected to more than quadruple by 2054 with 422,000 reaching the century mark. In 2024, 78% of centenarians are women, and 22% are men. The world is home to an estimated 722,000 centenarians, according to the United Nations’ population projections for 2024. Japan is the country with the greatest number of people in their 100s, at 146,000. China (60,000), India (48,000) and Thailand (38,000) round out the top five. Portrait of Carter by Herbert E. Adams

The holiday season can be a joyful time 🎄, but for many veterans and defence families, it also brings unique challenges. Christmas is a time to pause and reflect on the year gone by. Whether it’s family spread across different locations , missing a loved one who’s deployed, or remembering someone no longer with us, the festive period can be particularly tough. For veterans who have transitioned out of service, feelings of isolation can be heightened at this time of year. Financial pressures also weigh heavily on some families, as the cost of living rises and expectations of gift-giving add to the strain. Balancing the focus between presents and shared presence can help ease the stress. A simple act of kindness can make all the difference. Taking a moment to check in with someone—by asking “How are you doing?” or “How have you been lately?”—can foster connection and bring comfort. Offering support, whether through a conversation, a shared meal, or a helping hand, can help someone feel cared for. 💙🪖 This holiday season, let’s come together as a military community to ensure no veteran or Defence family feels alone. By looking out for one another and creating a sense of belonging, we can brighten the season for everyone.  👉 If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is always available. Reach out to veteran support organisations like Open Arms or the Defence Member and Family Helpline, or connect with local community groups. On behalf of the APOD Team, our thoughts are with you and your loved ones this holiday season. 👨👩👧 #apodcommunity #defencecommunity #veteranfamilies